Moving through Conflict: Using Physical Activity as a Tool for Conflict Management and Skill Building
Capstone Project
for
Master of Professional Studies
Angela M. Macdonald
University of Denver University College
January 8, 2012
Capstone Professor: James H. Krefft, Ph.D.
Academic Director: Amy E. Kelsall, Ph.D.
Dean: James R. Davis, Ph.D.
Abstract
This paper examines the physical effects of engaging in conflict, and why the use of physical activity can be used as an additional tool in conflict resolution and conflict training. Research supports the idea that problem-solving skills diminish with poor health. Physical activity addresses an individual’s health, enhances problem-solving skills, self-awareness, and social skills; all of which are important factors for effective conflict resolution and conflict training. Tools are introduced which help inventory a client’s activity level, interests, and assist in creating a plan for activity. Regular assessment of progress through client self-reporting is emphasized for making necessary adjustments to the physical activity plan, while long-term and short-term benefits of physical activity in relation to conflict reduction are discussed.
Table of Contents
Abstract……………………………………………………………………………………….ii
Table of Contents……………………………………………………………………………iii
Problem Definition…………………………………………………………………………..1
Project Foundations…………………………………………………………………………3
What is Conflict?………………………………………………………………………3
Physical Effects of Conflict…………………………………………………………..5
How Does Physical Activity Come Into Play?…………………………………….8
Team-building……………………………………………………………………….12
Project Solution…………………………………………………………………………….15
Approach……………………………………………………………………………..15
Recommended Solution……………………………………………………………17
Discussion and Recommendations………………………………………………………18
Solution Benefits and Costs……………………………………………………….18
Solution Strengths and Weaknesses…………………………………………….19
Solution Risks………………………………………………………………………..20
Solution Implications……………………………………………………………….21
Recommendations…………………………………………………………………..22
Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………………..24
References…………………………………………………………………………………..26
Appendixes………………………………………………………………………………….29
Physical Activity Assessment Tool………………………………………………..29
Physician Recommendations for Physical Activity……………………………..32
Problem Definition
Question
Why and how can conflict resolution practitioners use physical activity to assist in reducing stress and anxiety during the conflict resolution and training processes?This paper will examine the physical effects of conflict and ways to apply physical activity to counteract these negative physical effects, offering an additional tool to make the conflict resolution and training processes more effective.
Various research shows how conflict is related to a series of psychological and physical responses, which work to ease the discomfort of [conflict-induced] stress (Knoll 2011; Roos et al. 2007; Bureau Consultants 2006). Additional research can link these physical reactions to the perpetuation of conflict by increasing depressive mood, anxiety and reactivity to stress (Sigfusdottir et al. 2011), which inhibit decision-making and problem-solving ability (Marx, Williams and Claridge 1992).
Physical activity shown to “[enhance] self-concept, improved social attitudes and behavior, improved physical health or reduced emotional problems” (Ewart 1987, 16), is important as it can address the physical and psychological issues related to conflict. With this in mind, this paper assumes all other techniques used in conflict resolution are still applicable. Physical activity will be examined as an additional tool in this regard.
Once the psychological and physical aspects of conflict are understood, various approaches will be examined:
What kind of physical activity works best with certain types of people and situations?
athletes versus non-athletes
groups versus individuals
indoor/universal activities
outdoor, geographically specific activities
How to adjust physical activities for various ability levels?
precautions for ability-inhibited participants
working with groups/teams with members of differing ability levels
What types of situations make physical activity difficult or impossible?
injured participant
injury-prone participant
participant refuses activity
Finally, this paper will offer suggestions on how to incorporate conflict resolution and training with physical activities to reduce conflict-related stress and anxiety. How does a conflict practitioner work with participants during physical activity? What role does discussing the process afterward play in resolving conflict and/or training participants? Is there a suggested maintenance plan for participants outside conflict resolution and training?
Project Foundations
What is Conflict?
To examine the topic, the definition of conflict should be addressed. Bartos and Wehr define conflict as, “a situation in which actors use conflict behavior against each other to attain incompatible goals and/or express their hostility” (2002, 13). The authors warn this is a highly simplified description of conflict, and the terms conflict behavior, incompatible goals, and hostility need to be considered when defining conflict.
Starting with conflict behavior, the authors distinguish a difference between conflict action and conflict behavior. Bartos and Wehr note the use of the term behavior in their definition of conflict is not traditional and is based in the study of conflict theory, stating, “actors use conflict behavior against each other to attain incompatible goals and/or to express their hostility” (2002, 13). The authors also state that conflict action is planned, while conflict behavior is more reactionary and rationally deficient (2002, 21).
The identification of coercive versus non-coercive action and behavior is examined within the scope of conflict. Coercive action is defined as forcing the opposition to do something they do not wish to do (Bartos and Wehr, 23). While appearing to be less forceful, non-coercive action is defined by elements of cooperation, persuasion, and promised rewards. The two latter elements can be reasonably seen as coercive given the right circumstances (23-24).
Incompatible goals are viewed as situations where both parties cannot achieve what they wish at the same time (2002, 14). Examples of this overflow in the realm of competition. Two opposing sports teams cannot win the same game, two contractors typically do not win the same contract, and two people cannot be first in a race. Sure, they can share the titles or jobs, but this is not consistent with the original goals of either party.
Hostility is where conflict meets rationality and irrationality. Bartos and Wehr emphasize the ways irrational behavior contributes to conflict by clarifying what rational action looks like. Rational action involves taking all possible consequences into account. By considering the consequences of one’s behavior, conflict action is delineated from conflict behavior, and a reduction in hostility is the expected result. According to Bartos and Wehr, hostility is defined as nonrational, emotionally charged conflict behavior (2002, 21).
The distinction between conflict and competition is important for this paper, since we are dealing with potentially competitive environments with regard to teams sports. The primary difference between conflict and competition are the actions and goals of those involved. For instance, two basketball teams are competing against one another until they engage in conflict behavior (13-14). The primary issue at hand in competition is the incompatible goal that both cannot win the game; however, it can also be argued that the teams must have a compatible goal to not engage in conflict behavior and hostility. In relation to conflict resolution, this is similar to the idea of engaging in conflict within a set of rules and boundaries, limiting the potential for coercive and hostile behavior.
Physical Effects of Conflict
In research which looks at the psychophysiological aspects of conflict, we see a similar connection of what Revina calls will (2006, 182), with what Bartos and Wehr define as action (2002, 23). Both are seen as rational, intentional acts. Revina also specifies a voluntary component in regard to this “psychophysiological construct” of will, described as a “mental process mobilized by a single, functional task” (2006, 182).
Revina examines the impact of will and stress in both positive and negative responses to conflict. In positively functioning individuals, Revina found a person’s will plays a role in maintaining rational responses by creating a division of physiological reactions to the conflict (182). In comparison, a person with anxiety in conflict is significantly disadvantaged on a rational level due to the body’s physiological response to a perceived threat, which has induced the anxiety (182).
Revina goes on to state the necessity of somatic-autonomic regulation to help reduce the effects of autonomic and sympathetic nervous system over-stimulation, as this over-stimulation prevents one from rational processing (182). This paper will later address ways to use physical activity to counteract both the autonomic and sympathetic over-stimulation present during conflict, for both strong-willed and high anxiety individuals.
Why is it important to reduce negative conflict patterns? In a study by Kim et al., conflict is measured through emotional regulation. In addition to poor parenting skills, the research showed a generational connection of conflict styles. In other words, a child’s exposure to dysfunctional conflict styles is likely to result in that child’s own inability to functionally resolve conflict in personal relationships (2009, 585).
Roos et al. discovered families with heightened perceived work and home conflict tend to exercise less, and the diets of those studied reported poorer eating habits during high family-work conflict (2007, 222). This in combination with the research by Kim et al. shows a need to address the family, or group and interpersonal dynamics of conflict, as well as the psychophysiological components; especially when considering previously mentioned research referring to a need for autonomic and somatic regulation to increase rationality during conflict.
Given the information presented by Roos et al. regarding the role of family conflict styles with the learned styles of young people, it is important to examine the long-term effects of the conflict-induced stress. Knoll and Carlezon (2010) studied the effects of long-term exposure to stress. They found the hormone, dynorphin, one of the many hormones released during a stressful event, activates the kappa opioid receptors (KOR). In those not exposed to regular, long-term stressors, this release helps a person handle stress by increasing strength (fight) and the ability to escape (flight). However, in those with long-term exposure to stress and activation of the KOR, there is an increased occurrence of depressive disorders. The researchers also found a cyclical pattern where repeated KOR activation can actually amplify sensitivity to stress (2010, 56).
What does all this mean? According to Marx, Williams, and Claridge, study participants with a clinical diagnosis of depression and/or anxiety suffered performance proficiency on problem-solving tests. The researchers acknowledge that all clinical participants showed degraded scores compared to non-clinical participants, but that depression and anxiety participants showed greater difficulty (1992, 78).
The connections of conflict with stress, psycho-physical response, and health implications from stress and lifestyle are all shown to relate to anxiety, depression, poor problem-solving, and degraded social skills. These interdependent components lead to a perpetuation of conflict as a style and pattern of action and behavior that either results in positive or negative outcomes. Those involved with unusual amounts of negative conflict appear to be captive in the cycle. Until or unless one piece of the component is changed or removed from the pattern, these individuals will most likely stay in the cycle.
How does physical activity come into play?
Researchers looked at the effects of physical activity on conflict-related depression in adolescent boys and girls. They found physical activity was related to a decrease in depressed mood in those experiencing family conflict (Sigfusdottir et al. 2011, 895). These researchers acknowledge the benefits of physical activity not only on depressive disorders, but anxiety and reactivity to stress (896).
An article from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign looks at the work of one of the school’s professors, Alejandro Lleras, who studies the connection of the body and mind in problem-solving, or “embodied cognition” (2009). In his research, Lleras and colleague, Laura Thomas, found participants involved in sixteen minutes of arm swinging were 40 percent more likely to solve a conceptual problem compared to those who participated in less strenuous stretching exercises.
With the information, it seems a reasonable approach would be to engage in a minimum of sixteen minutes of moderate physical activity. Working on the problem while engaging moderate physical activity should help regulate the autonomic and sympathetic nervous systems, train clients to experience conflict with a positive approach, and with regular physical activity help reduce the likelihood of cyclical depressive episodes perpetuating one’s chances of engaging in conflict behavior by reducing problem-solving skills.
In an article about goal-reaching and physical activity motivation, Daniel Bailis and colleagues found physical activity effects can be greatly affected by participants’ perceived successes and failures. It was discovered those with goal-conflicts during physical activity valued the experience and rewards of said activities less than those without goal-conflicts; and those with goal-conflicts tended to stop participating in regular physical activity when confronted with said goal-conflicts (2011, 128). Bailis et al. define goal-conflicts in the context of their research as a participant having a claimed desire to participate in physical activities, but also perceive other “pursuits” as potentially compromised by engaging in this physical activity (129). The authors point to the notion that those who give up on physical activity tend to have diminished ability to manage long-term goals and set attainable goals; have greater shame and distress; experience greater difficulty differentiating when a goal is unattainable and should be set aside; and ultimately diminished psychological well-being (129).
This is important to consider when looking at what types of physical activity and how much is effective for enhancing problem-solving in conflict resolution and training. Bailis et al. point to the idea that physical inactivity is considered anything under thirty minutes per day, and this number is related to a decline in the health of the general populous in various areas around the world (128). While it would be ideal to have a client jump right in to thirty minutes of physical activity per day, it is important to consider where the client is starting to determine appropriate goals as not to perpetuate goal-conflicts. It is also important to determine the client’s competing pursuits, and maintain persistent awareness with the client of these potential issues. To reduce shame and distress in goal-conflicted clients, it may be important to maintain focus on the value of the activities to help regulate perceived inequities in the value of other pursuits.
How can we effectively assess a client’s physical activity levels? In research seeking to assist physicians determine a patient’s physical activity levels and counsel them accordingly, many useful tools exist. The research offers information about the typical activity levels of healthy individuals, stating three ten-minute intervals of daily activity, or three or more days per week of a minimum of twenty minutes of vigorous exercise (Meriwether et al. 2006, 484). To help save time in the assessment process, healthcare professionals can use the Physical Activity Assessment Tool (PAAT). This form (Appendix I) shows a series of questions the patients answer to help in the assessment and recommendations offered to those lacking in the physical activity area (485).
Meriwether et al. state the PAAT allows for variables such as cultural identification with different physical activities, and looks at frequency, intensity, and activity type. The authors also discuss the speed at which this form can be used, suggesting patients fill it out while waiting for their appointment, and allowing their clinician to quickly gauge the patient’s physical activity level (487).
In relation to physical activity for conflict resolution and training, the PAAT can be a useful tool when assessing a client’s activity levels. It can also be useful for determining the client’s goals, as well as showing what interests the client has by the examining the activities in which they engage. The form may need to be adjusted depending on the client’s location and available activities, but serves as an excellent foundation for assessment.
While some clients may have an interest in certain physical activities, there will be those with little experience by which to compare their area of interest. The PAAT is useful for making this assessment, but there are certain activities a client may be interested in that are not on the PAAT. Ewert, McCormick, and Voight bring to attention the use of outdoor experiential therapies and therapeutic recreation as ways to address dysfunctional behaviors, but also as ways to strengthen one’s abilities and health (2001, 108).
Ewert, a scholar in the area of outdoor adventure recreation, gives an historical overview of the area of outdoor adventure recreation and therapies in a separate article (1987). He explains the evolution of outdoor recreation research started out in the 1950s by looking at these activities’ effects on the individual, and moved into the sociological realm in the 1960s through the examination of “social benefits” of outdoor and adventure recreation (16).
In the 1970s researchers focused again on the individual, but to look at the ways outdoor adventure impacts one’s self-concept. Ultimately, in the 1980s research linked outdoor adventure with therapeutic qualities in regard to enhancing self-concept, social attitudes and behavior, improved physical health, or reduced emotional problems (16).
The common elements the writer of this paper wishes to utilize from Ewert’s work relates to his definitions of Adventure Therapy, Wilderness Therapy, and Outdoor Experiential Therapy. Adventure therapy utilizes physical and emotional challenge in risk-taking exercises. Wilderness therapy specifically focuses on adapting to a wilderness environment, while presenting physical and emotional challenges (2001, 109). Outdoor Experiential Therapy encompasses all areas of outdoor therapies, with the emphasis on outdoors, but not requiring adventure or wilderness settings (109). Presenting a client with an emotionally and physically challenging situation can help them become more self-aware, and enhance social-skills. On a long-term basis, a client’s improved health can enhance their problem-solving abilities. This means physical activity can be used in short-term and long-term contexts, but combining long-term and short-term activity regiments offer greater potential benefits.
Team-building
With the exception of individual training, working with groups, corporate teams, and families is an expected element of conflict resolution. In keeping with the spirit of this paper, the idea of team-building is discussed in an article called “Team Building Made Easy” (Hall 2002). Hall points to the importance of team-building, stating it helps develop “skills in communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution” (27). She also notes cooperation versus competition as fundamental challenges team-building addresses.
The benefits of team-building Hall presents are that it (27):
Increases mutual support within a group
Develops a greater interest in working and being with others
Increases personal confidence
Increases physical coordination
The article goes on to make suggestions for facilitating team-building. These suggestions include:
Actively discourage negative pressure and unacceptable stresses to the group, and do so early in the process. These stressors include acting impatient or showing displeasure.
Praise the participants and encourage inner-group praise.
Allow students to struggle without solving problems for them.
If time restraints prevent completion of task, allow members to finish at a later time, and require this completion.
Keep liability issues in mind. The acronym PEEP is used to remember personal, environmental, emotional, and physical safety when engaging in any physical activity.
Hall suggests discussing the activities with the participants afterward. She suggests asking questions to provoke discussion within the group, so they can examine their reactions to the process, and acknowledge weaknesses and strengths (28).
Regardless of the type of activity utilized, the reasons for doing so have been presented through analysis of current and historical research. Physical activity is important for a number of reasons, but when used as a tool for conflict resolution and training, it offers specific benefits for increasing the efficacy of a client’s work.
Addressing the issues related to the physical components of conflict, we have seen how conflict styles tend to originate at a young age and are consistent with the styles of one’s parental figures. Those living in high-conflict home lives tend to have poor eating habits and exercise habits, which are known to lead to health problems. These health problems are associated with depression and anxiety, which are related to poor problem-solving ability. These inhibitions in problem-solving skills can lead to social issues, leaving the individual in a difficult place from which to recover.
The intention of this paper is to examine ways to break this cycle, by addressing the physical components of conflict. Doing so has led to the discovery of the multiple layers and cyclical reactions within the realm of conflict. By breaking the cycle through addressing the physical elements, it is believed physical activity can be used as a tool for conflict resolution and training.
Project Solution
Approach
When a conflict practitioner and his/her client choose physical activity as a tool for conflict resolution or conflict training, certain items must be identified and evaluated to determine the most effective plan. The type(s) of activity chosen need to be reasonable for the location, climate, and ability level. Using physical activity as a tool for conflict resolution (between two or more people) versus individual training is also important. For instance, if a family wants to use physical activity to help resolve a specific conflict, it may not be productive to partake in an activity which separates them. Individual sports may be effective for families, and used to motivate clients to participate in regular physical activity outside conflict resolution sessions, but the element of interpersonal interaction is vital to the use of individual sports during a conflict resolution session. At the same time, situations may arise where it becomes necessary to engage one or more group members in individual activity to work on individual goals.
Team and individual activities can also be used for individual training, depending on the client’s needs and goals. Some individual clients may wish to work on team work. In this case, the client would benefit from participating and practicing team work with others. In other cases, an individual client may wish to work on the way they process conflict internally. This type of situation allows the client more flexibility in choosing an activity, whether team-based or individual.
To measure whether physical activity levels are affecting the efficacy of conflict resolution and training, a regular assessment of the client’s activity levels and feelings of progress is necessary. Using the PAAT tool, one can use to make an initial assessment, but for practicality in saving time and information gathering regarding the client’s feelings about their progress, the following questionnaire is recommended for use during each meeting with the client:
1.) How many hours per week do you participate in physical activity? ______
2.) On average, how would you rate the rigor of your physical activity this week?
Easy———————————————————————-Difficult
3.) Has your level of physical activity _____increased, _____decreased, or _____stayed the same?
4.) Rate your progress resolving conflict
No progress————————————————————Resolved
5.) Rate any changes in the number of conflicts you’re currently experiencing
No conflict—————————————————Many new conflicts
6.) Rate the intensity of your current conflicts
No intensity—————————————————–Greater intensity
Recommended Solution
To address the physical issues related to conflict, it is recommended that conflict resolution practitioners consider physical activity as tool. Physical activity can be used to enhance the client’s health, mental state, social interactions, and ability to problem-solve; increasing his/her probability at success in conflict resolution.
It is important clarify the two different types of activity a conflict practitioner might monitor during this process. The first type is out-session activity, the other we will call in-session activity. Out-session activities are anything the client does on his/her own, outside any sessions with the conflict practitioner. This type of activity is encouraged to promote the general health of the client, and is necessary in combination with in-session activity. These activities can be anything the client chooses as long as their engagement qualifies as regular physical activity on the PAAT.
In-session activity is the activity engaged in with the conflict practitioner. The purpose of doing this is to allow the conflict practitioner the opportunity to observe the client when challenged and discuss these observations with the client. This discussion can take place during the activity or afterward, but to gain insight to the client’s own conflict style, these observations should be discussed. The client should be encouraged to examine his/her reaction to the challenges presented. If working with teams or groups, the groups should discuss their experiences together. All clients should be encouraged to relate any conflict during the physical activity to other conflict patterns present.
Discussion and Recommendations
Solution Benefits and Costs
Using physical activity as a tool to enhance conflict resolution and conflict training is beneficial in a number of ways. As the research shows, those with high conflict home lives tend to have poorer eating and exercise habits. Further research shows those with poor health tend to have greater social issues and worsened problem-solving ability. In an attempt to make conflict resolution and conflict training more effective, physical activity can be used as a tool to address issues directly related to diminished conflict resolution skills.
Working to improve one’s health not only increases the client’s chances of working through conflict, but can help the client handle future conflict with greater awareness. These two considerations may not only help reduce the costs associated with conflict resolution (court costs, lawyers fees, etc.), but can also help reduce the potential for future conflict gone awry. Aside from these benefits directly related to conflict, improving one’s health can reduce healthcare costs and costs associated with poor decision-making.
Using certain physical activities can create an additional cost if the conflict practitioner is required to contract with an activity practitioner. An example of this might be working with a group who wishes to use an activity requiring special equipment. Unless a conflict practitioner has his/her own collection of kayaks, bikes, circus equipment, or whatever the client may suggest, it is highly likely that a conflict practitioner will need to work with sports activity practitioners. Any conflict practitioner willing to work with physical activity as a tool in his or her practice should research available activities in their area and use reasonable judgment regarding their own comfort and ability to use any activity effectively with the client(s). Some conflict practitioners may find certain activities are more effective with their individual style, and offer only these as options to the client.
When using physical activity, the costs can also be minimal. Walking in a public area is the most cost-effective, universally available activity. The important thing to keep in mind is to create a physical activity plan that appeals to the client(s) while allowing the benefits of physical activity to take place. This includes providing a service the client can afford. Ultimately, the conflict specialist must continuously evaluate the client’s needs and interests, cost restrictions, goals, and limitations when determining the efficacy of a chosen activity.
Solution Strengths and Weaknesses
The strengths of using physical activity as a tool for conflict resolution and conflict training are examined throughout this paper. We have seen how physical activity helps support the mental health and strength of the client, which can enhance his/her attempt to resolve conflict. Strengthening the client’s health and mind not only benefits the conflict resolution process, but it can help improve the overall quality of life of the client.
On the other hand, the proposed solution does present many challenges. Physical activity is not always a possibility, particularly if the client has no desire to participate. A client’s physical disabilities can also present challenges. Some people may also be afraid to risk liability by engaging in physical activity with a client, while some companies may have restrictions regarding the type of activities their employees can participate in while “on the clock.” Conflict practitioners may dislike physical activity, and lack a desire to participate with the client. Many circumstances can arise, all of which must be evaluated and addressed accordingly by the conflict practitioner.
There are also limitations with regard to the client’s choice in activity. Certain activities are simply unavailable, while others require hiring a specialist in that area to assure client safety. If the conflict practitioner is not willing to participate in the activity, this could hamper one’s use of in-session physical activity; however, the conflict practitioner can use this situation as an opportunity to observe and discuss the experience through post-activity recollection and analysis.
Solution Risks
As was mentioned above, some conflict practitioners may not want to engage in physical activity with a client due to the risk of injury, both for themselves and the client. Some employers may have liability concerns with employees participating in certain physical activities while they are on the clock. The mere nature of physical activity puts a person at risk; all the while, the risks associated with lack of physical activity could be arguably worse.
It seems appropriate for any conflict practitioner who uses physical activity in-session, to consult an attorney for information regarding personal and professional liability in their state. An attorney can also draw up a release form, similar to those used by various companies specializing in high-risk activities.(Skyventure Colorado Release and Waiver of Liability 2012). This release should inform the client about any potential risks, and these risks should be verbally discussed with the client. The conflict practitioner should emphasize the importance of maintaining open communication about the client’s comfort level with these risks, and frequently check-in with the client about their comfort levels.
Is the client reasonably uncomfortable, allowing them to benefit from the challenge, or is their level of discomfort interfering with the productivity of the conflict resolution or training session? Answering these questions will allow the practitioner to make necessary adjustments to the activity to assure safety and efficacy. A safety word is one way a conflict practitioner can assure the client that action will be taken to discontinue the activity if needed. This involves agreeing on a word the client will use if they become uncomfortable and must stop.
Solution Implications
The solution presented in this paper implies the use of physical activity will result in improved health, which will result in the client’s improved problem-solving ability, self-awareness, and social skills. These results are expected to result in the client’s improved ability to resolve conflict.
The solution also implies physical activity may be used alone or in conjunction with other tools as necessary. All clients will present with varying needs, and those with increased occurrence of conflict may be well-suited for a physical activity evaluation using the PAAT if they express an interest in the use of physical activity in their conflict resolution work.
Recommendations
Certain considerations should be made when participating in physical activity. Conflict practitioners should take as many precautions to assure safety for everyone. The following is a list of recommendations for conflict practitioners, but is by no means exhaustive:
1) First-aid and CPR certification.
2) know your limitations and strength.
3) know your clients’ limitations and strengths.
4) if you can, work with a partner while doing in-session training.
5) always check to make sure the environment and conditions are safe.
6) build relationships with the indoor and outdoor sport specialists in your area.
7) all clients must provide a physical release form from their doctor to participate in any physical activity training.
It is vital to consider safety first, and by obtaining and maintaining first-aid and CPR certifications, you will be prepared for the unexpected. Knowing your limitations and those of your client will allow you to gauge the effectiveness of the training, and prevent dangerous situations.
Working with a partner has a many benefits; one being safety in numbers. If the conflict practitioner is focused on the client, a partner can help compensate for this. It is also beneficial to have extra help when working with groups, inasmuch as managing large numbers of people can become daunting when combined with physical activity.
Again, with safety as a primary concern, preparing for inclement weather and any potential risks present is important. The environment is also important to assess before every session, as there may be new hazards with changing landscapes, erosion, and especially anytime water sports are the activity of choice.
Building relationships with the local sports companies can provide many benefits. Some companies are willing to cross promote through referrals, and some offer discounts to groups, and repeat customers. If you are unable to provide your service without the assistance of a specific sport professional, building relationships can help lower the cost of the practitioner’s service while providing a high quality experience to the client.
Finally, before working with a client, it is highly recommended that the client obtain a physical examination from their doctor and provide the practitioner with a copy to keep on file. Doing this may not prevent all potential problems, but it allows the practitioner and client a common understanding of what a physician has stated the client can or cannot do. Appendix B is a form the conflict practitioner can use to request information from the client’s physician to address any questions regarding specific limitations the client has.
Conclusion
Physical activity is one of many tools available for conflict resolution and conflict training. The use of physical activity is beneficial in the conflict resolution field for many reasons. Physical activity is related to one’s ability to problem-solve, which is a major element associated with effective conflict resolution. Regular physical activity is also associated with improved health, decision-making, social skills, and self-confidence. Physical activity is not a new approach for building these skills; however, this paper has shown the use of physical activity during conflict resolution and conflict training is not only possible, but provides additional options for the conflict specialist to assist the client in reaching his/her goals.
The use of physical activity should be decided upon with the client(s), as the level of client cooperation will affect the efficacy of the process. Selecting an appropriate activity depends on the comfort level of both the client(s) and the conflict practitioner. Personal, environmental, emotional, and physical safety should all take precedence when selecting and engaging in any physical activity.
In looking at the physical elements of conflict, this paper found physical health is related to conflict. Analysis of the research shows physical activity can improve core components of the client’s conflict style by enhancing self-concept, social skills, and problem-solving skills; all of which impact the efficacy of conflict resolution.
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Appendix A
Physical Activity Assessment Tool (PAAT)
1. Moderate physical activities are of moderate intensity, such as fast walking 3-4 miles per hour. Which of the following moderate activities did you do for at least 10 minutes at a time without stopping during the last 7 days? (Check all that apply)
Walking fast (3-4 mph) Walking downstairs Aerobics (low impact)
Bicycling (Less than 12 mph; <150W) Bowling Calisthenics (light)
Carpentry Dancing Fishing (while standing)
Gardening (planting, raking, weeding) Frisbee Golf
Housework (mopping, sweeping, vacuuming) Gymnastics Horseback riding
Lifting, turning, carrying less than 50 pounds Mowing lawn (power mower) Ping pong
Playing with children (walking, kneeling, lifting) Rowing, Sailing Skateboarding
Tai Chi, Qi gong Volleyball Yoga, vigorous stretching
Water Aerobics Washing or working on car Weight lifting
2. During the last 7 days, on how many days did you do a moderate physical activity for at least 10 minutes at a time without stopping? _______________ days
3. On those days that you did moderate physical activities, how much time did you spend on average doing the activities? ________________minutes per dayon II.
4. Vigorous physical activities are of more vigorous intensity, such as jogging or running. Which of the following vigorous activities did you do for at least 10 minutes at a time without stopping during the last 7 days? (Check all that apply)
Jogging, Running Walking upstairs Aerobics (high impact)
Carrying loads more than 50 pounds Basketball Calisthenics (vigorous)
Bicycling fast (more than 12mph; >150W) Judo, Karate, Kick Boxing Jumping rope
Roller skating, roller blading Stair Climbing/Stairmaster Soccer
Ski machine (Nordic Track) Swimming laps Tennis, Racquetball
5. During the last 7 days, on how many days did you do a vigorous physical activity for at least 10 minutes at a time without stopping? _______________ days
6. On those days that you did vigorous physical activities, how much time did you spend on average doing the activities? _______________ minutes per day
7. Compared to how physically active you have been over the last 3 months, how would you describe the last 7 days: (Check one)
______More active
______Less active
______About the sameSection III.
8. Circle ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ for each of the following:
a. Has your doctor ever said that you have a heart condition and that you should only do
physical activity recommended by a doctor?
Yes No
b. Do you feel pain in your chest when you do physical activity?
Yes No
c. In the past month, have you had chest pain when you were not doing physical
activity?
Yes No
d. Do you lose your balance because of dizziness, or do you ever lose consciousness?
Yes No
e. Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by a change in your
physical activity?
Yes No
f. Is your doctor currently prescribing drugs (for example, water pills) for your blood
pressure or heart condition?
Yes No
g. Do you know of any reason why you should not do physical activity?
Section IV.
9. To be considered physically active, you must get at least:
30 minutes of moderate physical activity on 5 or more days a week, OR
20 minutes of vigorous physical activity on 3 or more days a week, OR
150 minutes of moderate and physical activity combined each week
Given this definition of physically active, how physically active do you plan to be over the next 6 months? (Choose the best answer and check only one.)
____ I am not currently active and do not plan to become physically active in the next 6 months.
____I am thinking about becoming more physically active.
____ I intend to become more physically active in the next 6 months.
____ I have been trying to get more physical activity.
____ I am currently physically active and have been for the last 1-5 months.
____ I have been regularly physically active for the past 6 months or more.
10. What are the 3 biggest reasons why you would consider increasing your physical activity? (Check the 3 reasons that matter most to you)
Improve my health Make more time for myself
Control my weight Lower my stress
Look better Improve my fitness
Feel better Lower my risk of heart disease
Feel good about taking care of myself Lower my blood pressure
Set a good example for my family or friends Lower my cholesterol
Get my partner, child, friend to be more active with me Control my diabetes
Teach my family and friends the importance of physical
activity
Other:_______________________
11. Would any of your family, friends, or coworkers encourage you or help you get regular physical activity, perhaps by helping you take care of some of your other responsibilities? (Circle one)
Yes No
If yes, who can help you? ____________________________________________________
How can they help? _________________________________________________________
12. How confident are you that you could increase your physical activity if you decided to do so?
(Circle one)
Very confident
Fairly confident
Somewhat confident
Not at all confident
Appendix B
Physician Recommendations for Physical Activity
Physician Name:________________ Physician Phone:______________
Physician Address:________________________________________________
Patient Name:__________________ Patient Phone:________________
Patient Address:__________________________________________________
I give ________________________(physician’s name) permission to release pertinent medical information to Cape Cod Conflict Training regarding my ability to participate in physical activity.
Patient/Guardian Signature_____________________________ Date:________________
Patient Name (written):________________________________
(The following section to be completed by physician)
Does the patient have any limitations that must be addressed for participation in physical activities?
Yes_____ No______
If yes, please explain___________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
Are there any physical activities the patient cannot do?
Yes_____ No_____
If yes, please explain:__________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
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